The big thread merge!

OK—so what do you do when the book you're listening to is depressing? The book is "When the World Fell Silent," by Donna Jones Alward, and it is about the Halifax explosion (1917) when they were in the midst of a war. I totally get that times were tough. Many people died in the war, the explosion, and the Spanish flu. It just seemed that the two women in the book were saddled with EVERY possible calamity. Even the prologue foreshadowed terrible things. 

I hate abandoning a book, so I persevered. I'm now down to one hour, and at least some positive things are happening, but it's still very sad. I'll get through the last hour later today, and then I think the next book is happy!

I accomplished a LOT yesterday in Studio B, which is very exciting. 

WAIT -- that's after I accomplished a lot of paperwork, so it was a bonus day! 

The first thing I tackled was the threads. Incorporating the two stashes of 50-weight thread wasn't so big of a deal. 

The red/pink drawer looked like when I was done. 

The red/pink thread drawer

I got a chuckle out of my mismatched socks (intentionally) because they were the same color as the thread. About the mismatched socks, I swear my child used to buy socks (OK, so I paid for them), and then she immediately tossed one sock in the garbage. There are oodles of mismatched socks in the house, so rather than throw them out, I wear them. Who cares if my socks don't match? I surely do not! 

Mismatched socks

There were enough blues to fill another drawer. 

The blue drawer

And greens filled yet another drawer. 

The greens

The browns and the purples went into the fourth drawer. 

Purple and brown

And here are the oranges and yellows. A few oddballs are in this drawer—those variegated ones in the corner. 

Oranges and yellows

Because there are so many black, white, and grey threads, they are stored in two other containers—light and dark. The remainder of my threads are sorted by weight—30 weight, 40, 60, etc. 

I had to empty two drawers to combine all the colors, and those items fit into a plastic container, which went into the thread cabinet. 

Specialty threads

So, all the threads are organized. They already were; I just added these new additions. I can always find the thread I'm looking for. It's a huge relief, and I'm never in a panic because I can't find a thread. 

Speaking of thread, look what arrived in my mailbox. It arrived early in the morning, as our mail is delivered around 9 a.m. I ordered it on Wednesday afternoon and paid $20 for Canada EXPRESS post. That was an amazing deal and right on time!

My thread arrived

There is the old spool on the left and the new one on the right. I see the new one is shorter and more compact. Hopefully, that means the spool won't disintegrate. There is a lot of thread on the old one, but it is totally useless with the break in the middle, and the thread keeps catching. 

The old and the new

To give you a sense of the size of that spool, here it is on the long arm, and I'm holding one of the small spools in my hand. It's BIG. I use a regular thread in the bobbin, and I've never had issues with the tension when using this monofilament thread. It's great for quilting—especially when the pattern is spider webs!!

That spool is big!

The minute I put that spool on the machine and started it up, it worked like a charm, and I never had an issue with the thread. It was the broken spool that caused me grief. 

Here's the finished quilt, which has already been picked up!

Customer quilt - Done

I thought I had better return to my UFO, due tomorrow. I do not want to cough up any money! 

I managed to get one column of the T-shirts for the back assembled. 

One column of T-shirts

The other two columns are sitting on the ironing board, waiting to be assembled later today. 

The other two columns

While I was piecing, I decided to dig out those black-and-white with red center blocks and use them as enders and leaders! I need 60 blocks of each colorway, so I grabbed this set to start. There are 36 blocks completed, and 24 are in various stages of completion. I grabbed all the bits and did a great job last night. More importantly, I had FUN as it's been quite a while since I pieced anything. I've been doing a lot of embroidery and applique. 

Piecing some blocks

I have to laugh because the old rule was that you had to piece the same project on the same sewing machine. Not me. I've used MANY machines to piece the same project, and I use whatever is set up for piecing at the time! There are no issues! It's all about knowing how to get that ¼" seam! 

Then, as I was preparing this morning for my in-person class at The Hobby Horse, I pulled out a box to find a small sample. OH MY --- that would be interesting to use for my next UFO. I had something else in mind, but I might do this instead. I'll share it tomorrow. 

I still have three tubs (the blue one is only half full) of stuff to sort and put away. All is good, and everything so far has a home. 

Still to sort and put away

I found a couple of things that someone might want. Do you know what this fuzzy thing is? 

What is this?

It's something to put on the handle of your sewing machine. A few models have a sharp ridge on the handle, making carrying the machine uncomfortable. I have two, so if anyone wants one, let me know. elainetheriault@gmail.com

Cover for a sewing machine handle

I also found this hand embroidery kit. The pattern and the fabric are included. I'm not sure about the embroidery floss. If anyone wants that, let me know. Remember, I want people who are serious about doing this—do not COVET it just because it's free. 

Hand embroidery kit

The last thing for today is these brand-new gloves. I have a pair, which I need to dig out and use. The size is small. I think they would provide good support for arthritic hands, which is why I bought them, but my hands haven't been bothering me lately. 

Support gloves

I have other stuff to share, but there's no time! I need to be out of the house with my things by 8:30, and those girls will not be happy if they don't get a walk. 

I hope that everyone's thread stash looks neat and tidy! If not, then why are you still reading the blog? Hop to it and find some containers or whatever so that you, too, can have a nice, tidy stash of thread ready for you when you need it. I used organizer trays or small baskets in each drawer to avoid a huge jumble. I've used that for years, and it works just fine!

Have a super day!!!

Ciao!!!

Where are my favorite grocery store items?

I have ONE Zoom left for my day job! My, how time flies when you're having fun! There is lots of stuff to put away, but I don't have time to deal with it today. 

I still have an in-person event this weekend for anyone who has recently purchased a Husqvarna Viking Designer Epic 3, and there are two Zooms on Sunday. All the material is prepared for everything; it's just a question of putting it into a presentation or pulling out the appropriate equipment from the jumble!

Speaking of jumbles, I mentioned that I found a solution for Studio B. Even better, I found a CHEAPER solution than initially planned! Wait for that story; it should all come together later today so I can share it tomorrow. It sure pays to be in the right place at the right time! And it involves renting a van! 

Did you ever think that writing was an easy task? My blog is pretty easy. I get up in the morning, turn on the computer, and decide what to write about! I know—who knew that I could come up with so many things to write about? Oh—wait for it—I have a number of topics that I've been saving—curious things, so watch for those posts in the coming weeks. 

Writing for QUILTsocial.com is a whole different ball game. If I make something up on my blog—by that, I mean I don't check facts. Well, that's not true. I try to research to find the truth behind most of what I say unless it's a personal opinion, in which case, I don't need to check the facts—I AM the facts! 

But when you're writing about a sewing machine, I want to use the correct terms for the various presser feet or the functions of the sewing machine. Taking pictures? That's a whole other story. I'm editing/proofing the next post as I need to get it out today, and I was checking the photos. OH MY GOSH --- through the arm of the sewing machine, I can see the name of the sister brand in the background! I couldn't even edit that out, so back to take another picture!!

I got a chuckle out of that. I wonder if the editors would have caught that? So I spend a lot of time preparing the projects (which I never seem to finish), a lot of time writing them, and then more time checking the facts, editing, and proofing. But you know what? I LOVE doing it! I've learned so much from all that research on the sewing machine and the writing department! 

Yesterday, I had a service person look at the security system, including one of our smoke detectors, which has been useless for months. DO NOT YELL at me! 

Here's the deal -- remember that beeping I mentioned MONTHS ago? The system has provided a gentle beep every 30 minutes for FIVE months. We didn't even know where the beeping was coming from for at least a month. Yep --- we are pretty tolerant people. I was getting notifications: "The side door sensor needs a new battery. "Five minutes later, I would get another notification, "Side-door sensor fixed." Quite frankly, I just want this alarm thing to go away. 

We pay a monitoring fee every month, and they can see those notifications as well. They certainly knew that the system had been beeping for five months. It's a gentle reminder that something is wrong. So, if they are monitoring and they can see exactly what is wrong, do you think they would call the homeowner to schedule maintenance? Nope—they'll only monitor and alert if there's an emergency!

Anyway, the service person came and stayed for at least an hour while testing everything out. We got a new smoke detector, new sensors, and new batteries all around. And I was left with the debris!

The debris from the components of the alarm system

Which was added to the debris from the new door handle and screening installed the day before. 

More debris from the door handle replacement

I find it disturbing that they did not call, considering the issue had gone on for quite some time, and the messages were erratic. I must have received hundreds of notifications about the door sensor, which I ignored because it was on a door we never use. It's all just silly if you ask me. I have THREE dogs in the house right now, and they are always here. If someone so much as walks past my house, I'm alerted! I do NOT need an alarm system. OK -- smoke detector, yes, but alarm? No!

Look at the size of the paper that comes with the sensor! It's bigger than the sensor, and the batteries in those little devices are HUGE!!! It takes up half the sensor. 

The paperwork is larger than the sensor

The bottom line is that everything that needed urgent repair is now repaired, and I shall try to keep on top of it next time. I hate being so busy that I don't have time for those essential things. As I said -- I do NOT need a lecture on that!! We have other smoke detectors in the house!

What's with the grocery stores these days? I like a certain type of cheese (Jalapeno Havarti), and it's become hit-and-miss as to whether they have it. When I see it, I buy multiple packages. But it's very rare. Now that I think of it, they no longer sell the spicy hummus I like, although I can get it at another grocery store nearby. 

Where's my favorite cheese?

And what's with the Ryvita? The shelves have been empty of my favorite one (Muesli) for several weeks. 

Empty shelves

There was also an issue with getting the soup I wanted. I could get Pea Soup, but not with ham, yet I can get it at another store with no problem. I noticed that the soup with ham is back in stock. It's bizarre how the shelves are being stocked these days. 

I had a little tidying session the other day, and I have a few things I no longer need or want. This is InvisiGRIP, which you put on the back of your rulers to prevent them from slipping. I'm not a fan, and I think I had it on the back of ONE ruler, and that was it for me. It got peeled off, so the roll should be pretty full. If anyone wants it -- let me know. 

InvisiGRIP is up for grabs

I also have TWO WACOM pen tablets. They are older models, but both work just fine. I bought a large one. Where would you use this? Well, it's used instead of a mouse. I plan to use it for my embroidery software where I need a pen-like touch to edit. So those are both up for grabs as well. 

One of TWO WACOM pen tablets

As I was finishing with stuff, it got put on the stairs, and then when I went up, some of the items came with me. It's all cleared off now, so no need to yell at me for putting things on the stairs. Trust me - I am the MOST cautious person on the stairs, as I've heard of too many people who have fallen. I hold the handrail with a death grip (or so it seems some days!). 

Things to be moved upstairs

I think back to the days when I could run up those stairs two at a time with no issues. Now, I take my time, as I don't trust my knees! 

I attempted to give Bear a bath yesterday. Seriously? This should be easy, but I give him a bath, I use shampoo, and he still seems dirty! Sigh................  I'm trying! He's a trooper, and he's very patient! 

Here he was this morning, all curled up in his bed, SNORING!!! Not much of a helper!

Sleeping!!!!!

I think he's due for another professional grooming. Well, maybe in a week or two. 

For the most part, Murphy is a good dog! But she can test your patience at times. Even though she's eight or thereabouts (I never remember that stuff, and god forbid I know what date or even time they were born!), she's boisterous and enthusiastic. 

And for the most part, I love her to death. EXCEPT when it's 8 PM, and she's running back and forth along the fence in the backyard, happily barking at the top of her lungs because SOMETHING is moving in the forest—likely a raccoon. 

She is like that naughty child who does something they know they shouldn't, but they do it because it's FUN to see Mom running after them. She just stays out of reach, doesn't listen, and is generally a pain! Eventually, she tires of the game and lets me grab her and bring her into the house. 

So she has lost the privilege of being outside, alone in the evening. She'll go on a leash for a before-bedtime pee and then back in the house! Oh, Murphy! You would test the patience of a saint!!!

On that note, I need to get them out for a walk today. We didn't have time yesterday because of the timing of the alarm service guy, and then my afternoon was filled as well. They are anxious, and I can "hardly" wait! 

OH -- here's the link to the Virtual Retreat on Saturday evening, starting at 6 PM. 

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89816483795?pwd=Mjc3M3pvVmZPdjdsQzlHS3Zhck52dz09

Meeting ID: 898 1648 3795
Passcode: 248667

Have a super day!!!!

Ciao!!!

Work on the UFOs

It was another glorious day! I went out for a long walk in the afternoon with no hat, and by the time I got home, my jacket was open, my scarf was dangling, and my mitts were in m pocket! I LOVE days like that. But it was cold when I took the girls out in the morning, and my legs were a bit red when I got back!

We had our UFO Clubs in the morning, which is always a hoot. Who did or didn't get their homework done? If they don't, $10 will be donated to the food bank at the end of the year, and I swear that people do NOT want to give up that money. Hey -- it worked for me! 

As you know, I've been working on the 150 Canadian Women quilt, which started in 2017. My blocks have been done for a while, but I needed to get them together. I had recently sewed the rows together but needed to add the sashing between the rows. Well, I decided to go for it! And this is the state of the quilt at this point. 

The current state of my 150 Canadian Women quilt

The top is now in three pieces. The bottom row only has six blocks because I'm going to add the name of the quilt in machine embroidery along the bottom. Then the rest of it is in two halves. That will make adding the label much easier than handling the big quilt. I MUST get that done this week. 

I used my embroidery software to create a machine embroidery font that matched what the designer did in her handouts. 

The font in the handouts

It's hard to tell in the photo, but the one I created for the software is the third one on the left. You have to love all the software tools available to us, and once you know how to use them -- ANYTHING is possible. 

The font is recreated in embroidery software

All 150 names are embroidered on the quilt backing, so I must get that assembled and find something for the binding. OH -- and I need to add two borders. 

I used EQ8 to design the outer border and figure out how wide the inner border needed to be to accommodate the outer border. Yep -- I love software and how I can marry it all together to get the job done.

The borders for my 150 Canadian Women quilt

I should also figure out what to do with the corners. But it's going to look amazing. And I will confess I "stole" the border idea and the machine embroidery idea from someone's quilt I saw online; although I did mine differently, but her quilt inspired me to do my thing. 

And to make things interesting for myself, I'm doing TWO UFOs a month -- one for each of the two groups. I know --- a sucker for punishment, but I'm getting things done. 

So when I was tidying, I discovered this project (among MANY others), and it's not on my list, so I deviated a bit there. 

Another UFO

The pieces were cut (from one fabric), and this is what I ended up with. The quilt is only 4 blocks by 4 blocks. And the texture of it looks fantastic. I now have to find something for the borders. 

The start of my next UFO

And I have a few blocks left over with a LOT of gold color in them. They just didn't go with the blocks above, and I'm tempted to rotate that one block (leftmost in the second row) as it's got a light spot that my eye goes to every time I look at the quit. 

The leftovers

The issue now is that I want to add the embroidered sunflowers, like the original pattern. However, that design is long gone. So I have to create (or buy) something. That is my goal for this month. Oh boy!!!!

I'll share some of the other UFO projects later this week. It's always exciting to see what they are working on, and one must avoid getting FOMO when looking at all the creativity. We must focus on getting things done! Our items, and not adding to those already lengthy lists!

I found a taker for almost everything I put up yesterday (THANK YOU). But the person who got the Barbie panels got a bonus! I knew I had this play mat for fashion dolls (11" -- because we don't want to say Barbie and have to pay royalty for that!). Anyway, I also had FOUR printed panels that look like Barbie's house, including a craft room. Does anyone remember this? I bought it at Jillybean's Pride, and we all know how long ago that store closed! 

Fashion Doll playmats

So that all must be bundled into a Canada Post box and mailed later this week. Another trip to the mall! It was easy to find that mat. Why? Because the box it was in was labeled. 

Labeled project boxes

I had a good idea where the box was, but since I was looking for that other project, I looked in a few other places. I believe the missing project is in a plastic bag, which is not good. I don't have a visual relationship to the location of any project in a plastic bag, so I may or may not find it. Those labels are VISUAL reminders!

But in the meantime, I found this pattern I had lost years ago! I had to borrow the pattern from my Aunt Irene to make these two quilts for my Mom. Wow -- that pattern was "lost" for over 10 years! 

A missing pattern is now found

Now that my items are more or less sorted, I need to go through them thoroughly and make lists of what is where. This will be a pain in the butt, but it would make it much easier to find something. Even the process of doing that would make me remember where things are. There was so much switching around as I found homes for everything that some stuff got "lost." And I can sort them depending on where they get stored. 

I hate to admit it, but there are FIVE areas where projects are stored, and it would be nice to have one place just for UFOs. OH - they are all UFOs, so I need to develop a better structure than that! Something to think about on the next walk. How to sort the UFOs. Mostly done? Barely started? Are they on my Master Lists? It would be good to have all the projects I've highlighted on my annual lists in one spot. The missing project is on that list! Do I have time for that? I should make time!  

And as I was rooting around where that lost pattern was, I found other boxes filled with a background fabric and a pattern. Those can be pulled apart, as I'll likely never make them. Oh boy --- as Elle said, I will be at this sorting and organizing for a long time. But the more I do, the better it gets, so I just need to keep sorting and decluttering. 

Lots of e-mails went out the door yesterday. I still have more distribution lists to create and double-check. And there are two more follow-up e-mails, and then I'm caught up with that. Just in time to have more classes this coming weekend! 

I've got more writing, and I NEED to get the long arm fired up!!!

And we've had several SERIOUS conversations about one car versus two cars. You'll have to wait with bated breath as to what we decide. It's not a done deal yet. 

But right now? I'm on my way to spin class. 

Have a super day!!!

Ciao!!!